Well the temperature is dropping now, and Fall is fast approaching. Time to start thinking about a few things to do to help your home withstand another Canadian Winter.
Gutters
This is something that often gets overlooked. Either get up on that ladder and do it yourself or hire a handyman to ensure that you remove all of the dead leaves and debris removed from rain gutters. If you don't you may get some build up and the melting ice will have nowhere else to go but into your home.
Windows
If you use storm windows, make sure they are clean and free of cracks before installing. If you happen to put plastic inside your home over the windows to eliminate drafts, ensure that you put the plastic right to the wall and over all the window moulding as this is where most of the drafts come in.
Caulking
In most home energy audits performed on the average home. The conclusion results in a football size hole in the side of your home. Go around your home and remove any old worn caulking and replace with new.
Air Circulation
Clean and adjust ceiling fans so that air circulates more efficiently. This allows fans to gently mix warmer air (which naturally rises) back into the room. This should be the opposite of what you had done in the spring time to pull cool air up.
Fire Protection
Winter is fast coming and you will soon want to use that fireplace or woodstove for some extra heat. Make sure to call in someone to have your chimney's cleaned and inspected before use.
Unwanted Visitors
I'm not talking about your inlaws. Mice are excellent climbers and only need an opening of about ¼ inch to sneak into your home to search for food. Seal all cracks and other openings into your home and block off ventilation ducts. Some of the holes like weeping holes in bricks and ventilation for dryers and hood fans are there for a reason and aren't meant to be fully blocked so in that case use a heavy-gauge wire mesh.
Don't ever forget, your home isn't just where you live, it's the largest investment of your life. Protect it, and maintain it.
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